Deen -- caught in a firestorm after a videotaped deposition surfaced last week in which she admitted to using the N-word and other racial insensitivities -- appeared on NBC's "Today" Wednesday morning to try to clear her name.

Critics were divided on her performance. During the interview with co-host Matt Lauer, Deen denied she was a racist, blamed "someone evil" for her recent troubles and added, "I is what I is and I'm not changing."

Meanwhile, Deen's handlers tried to minimize the damage by emailing reporters "statements of support" from companies that say they intend to keep doing business with Deen. Among them: Landies Candies and Tasty Blend Foods.